The problem with visiting New York City is knowing where to begin, but even if you don't immediately rush off to view the world-famous sights and landmarks of this most dynamic of cities, just being there is enough: the wonder of New York is in the energy and the diversity that emanates from its densely packed, multi-cultural population. The city vibrates with colliding cultures and languages; here high-life and low-life rub shoulders, and whoever you are and whatever your taste, there will be something to amuse and stimulate you 24-hours a day.<br /><br /> Whether lolling on a bench in leafy Central Park, watching the world go by from a French bistro in Soho, or gazing up at 'Lady Liberty' from the deck of the Staten Island Ferry, most visitors will feel they've done it all before, simply because New York is so familiar to anyone who has ever seen a movie or watched television. There is something special, however, in actually seeing the familiar landmarks and experiencing the pulse of the 'city that never sleeps'.<br /><br /> New York City is made up of five boroughs: Staten Island, The Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan, but many visitors never leave Manhattan. There is a lot packed into this tiny area: the 24-hour pasta restaurants of Little Italy and the bustling sidewalks of Chinatown, the jazz clubs of Greenwich Village and the theatres of Broadway; and of course the iconic sights of the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building and Times Square.<br /><br /> New York has been described as the best three-day city in the world, and that's about right. After a frenzy of museums, galleries, bars and clubs, many visitors are ready for a break. Fortunately there's a lot of choice in excursions, from the National Parks of upstate New York, to the beaches of Long Island, or simply the leafy oasis of Central Park. Whatever you're after, New York is ready and waiting to bewitch, bother and bewilder.<br /><br />

Tarrytown

Address: New York City

Forty miles (64km) north of New York City is Tarrytown, known to Washington Irving fans as Sleepy Hollow, setting for the . The town is packed with historic homes including the impressive Rockefeller residence and Irving's home. Over of the east bank of the river is Hyde Park, where President Franklin D Roosevelt was born and spent much of his adult life. The Franklin D Roosevelt Home and Library contains hundreds of photos and artefacts, including the specially made car he drove after being struck with polio in 1921, and the letter from Einstein that led to the development of the atomic bomb. Two miles (3km) outside Hyde Park is the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site - a spectacular Beaux Arts mansion. A day in Tarrytown is a popular excursion from New York City.<br /><br />

The High Line

Address: The High Line runs from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to West 34th Street and can be accessed at numerous points. New York City

Admission: Admission is free and there are free public tours but donations are appreciated. December to March 7am - 7pm; April to May 7am - 10pm; June to September 7am - 11pm; October to November 7am - 10pm.

The High Line, or High Line Park, is a verdant elevated strip hovering between the skyscrapers of Manhattan's West Side. This unique public park is built on what was once a freight rail line and brings a welcome splash of greenery into the district. Construction of the park began in 2006 and was completed in 2014; it now draws millions of visitors annually and has led to a real estate boom in the areas it passes through, with apartments overlooking the pretty strip rocketing in value.<br /><br /> As well as being a picturesque and convenient way to get from A to B in the West Side, the High Line features viewpoints, recreation areas and public spaces for exhibitions and productions. The most popular spots for cultural diversions in the park are the 14th Street Passage and Chelsea Market Passage, semi-enclosed sections frequently used for public programs and art exhibitions. Kids will love features like the Pershing Square Beams, just west of 11th Avenue, where the original framework of steel beams has been exposed to create a garden playground. Those who just want to find peaceful spots to read, rest or admire the view can capitalise on the many viewpoints, benches and well-designed nooks, or even have a picnic on the 23rd Street Lawn.<br /><br />

The Statue of Liberty

Address: Liberty Island, New York Harbor New York City

Admission: Ferry fee (which includes access to the grounds around the statue): $18. Tickets for access to the Pedestal and Crown must be booked in advance. Ferries depart between 9am and 3.30pm.

The universal symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty was the first sight to be seen by the 12 million immigrants who passed through the Ellis Island Immigration Centre. Sculpted by Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi and modelled on the Colossus of Rhodes, the statue was donated by the people of France in 1886 to commemorate the alliance between the two countries during the American Revolution. The ferry calls at both Liberty and Ellis Islands, and tourists can visit Ellis Island Museum, which documents the experiences of the immigrants. On Liberty Island, advance bookings allow visitors to access the crown of the famous statue, but these tickets must be booked something like six months in advance in the peak summer season.<br /><br />

World Trade Center - Ground Zero

Address: Tribute WTC Visitor Center: 120 Liberty Street New York City

Admission: Admission is free for the family of 9/11 victims; general admission is $24 for adults with concessions available. The memorial is open daily 7.30am - 9pm; the museum is open 9am to 8pm Sunday to Thursday, and 9am to 9pm Friday and Saturday.

The six-hectare (16-acre) work site that has emerged from the rubble of the twin towers has come to symbolise the dreadful events of September 11, 2001 when almost 3,000 people lost their lives. The 1,350ft (411m) World Trade Centre towers were the tallest buildings in New York and proud symbols of the city. Millions now come to pay tribute at the site and witness the devastation from one of the viewing sites. In April 2003, the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation launched a worldwide competition to design a memorial at the World Trade Center site to honour the victims of September 11. The LMDC received 5,201 memorial design submissions from 63 nations and 49 states making this the largest design competition in history. In January 2004 'Reflecting Absence' by Michael Arad and Peter Walker was unveiled as the design for the World Trade Center Memorial. The memorial features a landscaped civic plaza with two massive voids aligned with the footprints where the twin towers once stood. The memorial and museum are now open to the public, providing an accurate and moving account of what the community endured during the attacks.<br /><br /> Tourists should be mindful that this is a sombre memorial frequented by mourning family members, making things like loud chatter and smiling selfies inappropriate.<br /><br />

Radio City Music Hall

Address: 1260 Sixth Avenue New York City

Admission: Tours: $26.95 (adults), $19.95 (children under 12); concessions available. Event ticket prices vary. Tours daily between 9.30am and 5pm.

Located in Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall is one of the most famous theatres in the world. The home of the Rockettes chorus line, the theatre's interior was declared a New York landmark in 1978. The Hall's beautiful cinema, while not in regular use anymore, still hosts premieres and shows selected feature films. The Hall's most popular event is the annual Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular, which attracts more than a million people and has been running since 1933. Various shows and events are hosted at the Music Hall - check the official website listed below to see what's showing. Tours of Radio City Music Hall run daily and receive rave reviews.<br /><br />

Empire State Building

Address: 350 Fifth Avenue, between 33rd and 34th Streets, Manhattan New York City

Admission: Main Deck: $32 (adults), $26 (children 6-12). Concessions and special ticket deals available. Observatory: daily 8am-2am; last elevator at 1.15am.

One of the enduring symbols of New York, and once again the city's tallest structure, the Empire State Building stands 436 feet (145m) tall. Completed in 1931, this Art Deco behemoth remains one of the most impressive engineering feats of all time; it was built in just 410 days and remains the fastest rising major skyscraper ever built. The building has been immortalised in many films - most famously the classics King Kong and Sleepless in Seattle. The observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors offer magnificent views of the city; it is ideal to visit on a clear day, as the views can be completely obscured when it is foggy.<br /><br />

Central Park

Address: New York City

With great foresight, the founders of New York set aside 340 hectares (840 acres) of central Manhattan as a public space. Central Park was officially opened in 1873 and today provides an essential 'green lung' within the concrete jungle that is New York. Originally designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the park contains themed gardens, tennis courts, lakes and even a small zoo. Much of the park is infused by the city's bustle and on nice days swarms with joggers, skaters, buskers and tourists, but there are areas beyond the range of baseballs and frisbees where tranquillity can be found in this beautifully landscaped park. It also hosts performances of everything from rock music to Shakespeare. During winter, two ice-skating rinks open up in Central Park, the Wollman Rink (mid-Park at 62nd St) is one of the most picturesque in the world, set among the trees and rolling hills and against the backdrop of Manhattan's skyscrapers.<br /><br />

Museum of Modern Art

Address: 11 West 53rd Street, Manhattan New York City

Admission: $25 (adults), free for children under 16 accompanied by an adult. Daily 10.30am - 5.30pm (until 8pm on Friday).

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), founded in 1929, owns the most important collection of modern art in the USA including works by Monet, Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, Max Beckman, Ansel Adams, and Kiki Smith. What started as a gift of eight prints and one drawing has developed into a vast and varied collection of something like 150,000 paintings, prints, sculptures, photographs and other media, and the Museum's Library and Archives boast an impressive collection of books, historical documents and photographs. Priding itself as an educational institution, the Museum of Modern Art offers various activities and programmes for the general public, as well as special segments thereof, in order to broaden the community's knowledge of, and approach to, the exciting and puzzling world of modern art.<br /><br />

The Guggenheim Museum

Address: 1071 Fifth Avenue, at 89th Street New York City

Admission: $25 for adults; concessions available. Rates differ for special exhibitions. Sunday to Friday 10am - 5.45pm; Saturday 10am - 7.45pm; closed Thursdays and Christmas Day.

The Solomon R Guggenheim Museum was designed by US architect Frank Lloyd Wright and was completed shortly after his death in 1959. It is well worth a visit just to see this icon of Modernist architecture, which was designed specifically to showcase the modern art within. Inside, it features a highly commended collection of late 19th and 20th-century art works, as well as touring exhibitions. From beneath the huge glass dome, a quarter-of-a-mile-long ramp spirals down the inside of the building, past the collection of art, including works by Pissarro, Kandinsky, Klee, Picasso, Toulouse-Lautrec, Cézanne, Mapplethorpe and Gober. Lovers of modern art will be in heaven.<br /><br />

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Address: 1000 Fifth Avenue, at 82nd Street New York City

Admission: Admission costs are voluntary and made as a donation. Recommended admission is about $25 for adults. Sunday to Thursday 10am - 5.30pm; Friday and Saturday 10am - 9pm.

The Metropolitan Museum possesses one of the greatest, and largest, collections of art in the world; it is a cherished New York institution and a must see for any visitor. Banners above the Met's Fifth Avenue entrance herald the current attractions; there are always a few temporary exhibitions displaying masterpieces from around the world alongside the Metropolitan's own impressive permanent collection. The highlights of the permanent collection are numerous, American collectors having had the foresight, and cash, to buy up a large number of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces from Europe at the end of the 19th century. The Metropolitan Museum's collection now contains more than two million works of art from all points of the compass, from ancient through modern times, including great works by Van Gogh, Renoir, Monet and Cézanne to rival any art collection in the world.<br /><br />

American Museum of Natural History

Address: Central Park West, at West 79th Street New York City

Admission: General admission $22 (adults). Concessions and special ticket options available. Temporary exhibitions charge additional admission fees. Daily 10am to 5.45pm, except Christmas Day and Thanksgiving.

Challenged only by its counterpart in London, the American Museum of Natural History is the largest and most important museum of its kind in the world. More than 30 million artefacts are packed into 45 exhibition halls - quite enough to keep anyone busy on a rainy afternoon. The most popular exhibit is a 50ft (15m) tall skeleton of a barosaurus in the Theodore Roosevelt Rotunda, and there are three more spectacular dinosaur halls on the fourth floor. Other halls include the Hall of Biodiversity, the Hall of Ocean Life, the Hall of Human Biology and Evolution and the fabulous Hayden Planetarium: a 90ft (27m) wide aluminium sphere that seems to float inside a massive glass cube, which in turn is home to the Rose Center for Earth and Space. Those tired of walking can check out the Museum of Television and Radio.<br /><br />

Broadway

Address: New York City

Going to the theatre is one of the most popular tourist events in New York and the shows on Broadway are world famous, boasting some of the best productions in the world from blockbuster musicals to intense and intimate dramas. There are ongoing shows that have been running for years, such as The , , and . Newer, edgier shows play off-Broadway, and may provide just as much entertainment at slightly lower prices. This is one way to experience part of the American dream, even if only on vacation. There is something to entertain people of all ages!<br /><br />

Times Square

Address: Corner of 42nd Street and Broadway New York City

Though it's ultimately just an intersection at the corner of Broadway and 42nd Street, Times Square has achieved iconic status, representing, in a single frame, the hive of activity that is New York City. Flashing advertisements and huge billboards produce a headache-inducing but memorable sight. Times Square has been used in countless films, television programs and literature. It is the base for ABC's Good Morning America programs and MTV's popular Total Request Live. Annually hundreds of thousands gather on New Year's Eve in the square to revel and see the famous ball-dropping ceremony. In 2009 Times Square was closed to traffic, and visitors can now enjoy strolling and sitting at their leisure, without worrying about getting hit by New York City's notorious taxis.<br /><br />

Rockefeller Centre

Address: Between 48th and 51st Streets; and 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue, Manhattan New York City

Named for the man who developed the space, the world's first dollar billionaire, John D Rockefeller, this 22 acre (8ha) land houses a plethora of iconic New York City attractions. Radio City Music Hall used to be the most popular tourist venue in the city and still ranks highly among visitors. Radio City has hosted multiple awards shows such as the Grammies, Emmies and MTV Music Awards. It is also a concert venue frequented by today's popular performers. The GE Building, the address for which the popular TV series is named, is the home to and the site from which the eerie 'Lunchtime atop a skyscraper' photograph was taken. At the base of the GE building is the Rockefeller Ice Rink with the golden statue of Prometheus at its head. Underneath Rockefeller Plaza is the Concourse, an underground pedestrian mall boasting designer brands and food outlets.<br /><br /> Best views of New York City? The Rockefeller Center's eight level viewing platform and the pinnacle of the Empire State building duke it out for top honours in this contest. The winner might be the Rock because it alone offers great views of the iconic Empire State building among its 360 degree vistas of the city below. There are both indoor and outdoor viewing areas, so it's suitable to visit in all weather. The best and most popular time to visit is half an hour before sunset when one can experience both the day and night time views. Book ahead online and skip the queue for your slot.<br /><br />

Brooklyn Bridge

Address: New York City

Admission: Free Daily 24 hours

The sheer scope of New York City is hard to understand until you have traversed the Brooklyn Bridge, inaugurated in 1883, which crosses 5,989 feet (1,825 m) of the East River and connects two of New York's biggest metropoles, Manhattan and Brooklyn. The construction of the bridge was an impressive feat of engineering ingenuity and upon completion it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Today it is a treasured landmark of the city, colourfully illuminated at night to highlight the architectural towers and hangings. There is a pedestrian walkway from which visitors can savour vistas of both Manhattan and Brooklyn. Photographers looking for quintessential New York cityscapes should be sure to walk the bridge.<br /><br />

St Patricks Cathedral

Address: Fifth Avenue, between 50th and 51st Streets New York City

Admission: Free The Cathedral is open daily from 6.30am to 8.45pm.

St Patrick's Cathedral is a magnificent example of the geometric style of Gothic architecture that was popular in Europe in the 13th century. It is the seat of the Roman Catholic archbishop of New York and the largest Catholic cathedral in the United States. With its spires soaring 330 feet (100m) into the air, and the ornately detailed entrance, this is undoubtedly one of the city's most spectacular buildings. St Patrick's was built between 1850 and 1878; its giant organ has over 7,300 pipes. To most New Yorkers and harried tourists, St Patrick's is most valued for its peace and tranquillity - rare qualities indeed in this most frenetic of cities. The cathedral is very much an active place of worship and although tourists are welcome they should show respect, especially during church services. For a list of service times consult the official website listed below. Guided tours are available.<br /><br />

Grand Central Station

Address: 110 E. 42nd St. New York City

One of New York's most famous and best loved landmarks, Grand Central was opened in 1913 opposite Rockefeller Center. It is one of the world's largest train stations, with 44 platforms, but its true distinction is its magnificent architecture and striking ambiance, anchored by enormous windows and the refurbished ceiling, covered by a detailed astronomical fresco. The terminal houses a number of good restaurants, budget-friendly eateries, and speciality shops. The 12,000 sq ft Vanderbilt Hall regularly houses public events. Don't miss the one-hour guided tour; book several weeks ahead in peak season to avoid disappointment. Grand Central sees about double the amount of visitors every day as it does commuters!<br /><br />

Central Park Zoo

Address: 64th St. and Fifth Ave, Central Park New York City

Admission: General Admission is $12 for adults, and $7 for children. Combination deals, concessions and family specials are available. Open daily 10am - 5pm on weekdays and 10am - 5.30pm on weekends and holidays. Hours are slightly reduced between November and March.

Home to some exotic and beautiful animals the Central Park Zoo is a must for all children and animal lovers visiting the city. Residents at the zoo include the elusive red pandas, polar pears, snow leopards and snow monkeys to name a few. The Tisch Children's Zoo is a great place for young kids, where goats and peacocks can be viewed and children can even pet the goats, sheep, alpacas, potbellied pigs and other barnyard animals on display. There are discounts available for booking online, and purchasing the tickets online also allows visitors to skip the queues which can get quite long in the peak summer months.<br /><br />

Trump-Wollman Rink

Address: Central Park New York City

Admission: Monday to Thursday: $11.25 (adults), $6 (children under 11). Friday to Sunday: $18 (adults); $6 (children under 11). Public Skating hours can vary throughout the year, and the rink is only open seasonally.

This public ice rink, located in Central Park and made famous by many movies, is a fantastic place to take the kids for the day during the winter months in New York City. The setting is beautiful, surrounded by trees with the New York City skyline above them. Children can even attend skating school or host a party or event here, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience. The rink is not just for children, however, and is a popular spot for dates in New York City due to the romantic associations and stunning setting. The whole family is bound to enjoy a few hours at this rink - there may be others in the city, but the Trump-Wollman Rink is the most spectacularly scenic.<br /><br />

Brooklyn Childrens Museum

Address: 145 Brooklyn Avenue New York City

Admission: $11 per person. Children under the age of 12 months get in for free. Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 5pm (open till 6pm on Thursdays). Closed Mondays.

The Brooklyn Children's Museum is a great place to take the little ones while on holiday in New York City. It was founded in 1899 and is said to have been the first museum in the United States. Its collections and exhibits include hands-on activities, role-playing opportunities, resident animals and thousands of artefacts to teach children about science, the environment, culture, and the arts. There are no 'Do Not Touch' signs here! There is a cafe and a shop at the museum, and a special 'Totally Tots' section for kids under five. Children must be accompanied by an adult (somebody over 16).<br /><br />

The Frick Collection

Address: E 70th Street at 5th Ave New York City

Admission: $20 adults, concessions available. Children under 10 are not admitted. Admission price includes audio guide. Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 6pm, Sundays 11am - 5pm.

The Frick is quite possibly New York's most underrated art gallery, a collection of exceptional paintings featuring important works by Vermeer, Manet, Rembrandt, Whistler, Goya and Van Dyk. A highlight of the collection is the renowned pair of Holbein paintings of Thomas More and Thomas Cromwell, and the group of small bronze sculptures, rated the finest in the world. This was the New York residence of Henry Clay Frick who transformed a fortune made in the coal business into this sublime building, facing onto Central Park. The interior courtyard is a tranquil retreat from the busy world outside.<br /><br />

Staten Island Ferry

Address: New York City

Admission: Runs 24 hours, see website for schedule.

A must-see New York attraction that doesn't cost a dime? The ferry from Battery Park to Staten Island and back is a great way to see the Lower Manhattan skyline and Hudson river life while resting your feet. The ferry also skirts the Statue of Liberty affording decent views of this iconic structure. Most tourists stay onboard for the return leg, but it's worth hopping off and exploring a bit of Staten Island while you're there. Staten Island is a borough of New York City and a fun neighbourhood to explore, but the ferry journey, mainly used by commuters, is actually the main attraction. The ferry leaves roughly every 30 minutes or every hour and takes 25 minutes each way. Schedules are available on the official website listed below.<br /><br />

Greenwich Village

Address: Lower Manhattan New York City

Greenwich Village (affectionately referred to as 'The Village') started out as an industrial park, but was taken over by artists, poets, beatniks, radicals, and other bohemians that founded a vibrant arts community. These days the area has been gentrified and rents are sky-high; you'll see more yuppies than squatters. The area was also the setting for the popular sitcom Friends. Greenwich Village is home to New York University, and the famous Washington Square Park. The area has retained a bit of artistic flair though, and contains a number of great off-Broadway theatres and historic jazz and rock venues like Bitter End, Village Vanguard, Small's, and the Blue Note. You'll also find an eclectic mixture of international restaurants and cafes to visit.<br /><br />

Wall Street

Address: New York City

Home to the New York Stock Exchange, Wall Street has attained near-mythical status as the financial heart of the US, and indeed the world. The narrow street runs from Broadway to the East River, and is home to landmarks like Federal Hall, where George Washington was inaugurated as the first US President; and 23 Wall Street, which still has shrapnel holes in its limestone facade from the 1920 Wall Street Bombing. One of the iconic symbols of Wall Street is the Wall Street Bull (or Charging Bull) a 7,100 pound (3,200kg) bronze sculpture by Arturo Di Modica in Bowling Green Park. The sculpture is a popular photo opportunity in New York, symbolising financial optimism and prosperity.<br /><br />

Coney Island

Address: New York City

Coney Island has been a tourist attraction in New York City since the 1830s, when New Yorkers would flock to the beaches. Its movie theatres, amusement parks, museums, circus, aquarium and restaurants still attract crowds each summer, and each Friday there is a fireworks show at about 9.30pm. Coney Island claims to be the birthplace of the hot dog, and no visit is complete without sampling the yummy street cart fare along the boardwalk. The activities and amusements at Coney Island are in full swing from May to September, but many attractions may be closed outside of these months. There is no accommodation on Coney Island, but it makes a great day out for the whole family.<br /><br />

Ellis Island

Address: New York City

From 1892 to 1924, nearly every immigrant (totalling more than 20 million) moving to the US was funnelled through the crowded halls of Ellis Island, just off the coast of New York. No longer in use as an immigration port, today the island draws millions of people each year as one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York City.<br /><br /> The Ellis Island Immigration Museum offers multimedia exhibits showcasing the island's crucial role in the history of the US through the stories of various immigrants that passed through. An interesting exhibit is the American Family Immigration Center, which allows visitors to access passenger records to find relatives. A 45-minute audio tour (available in about nine languages) offers visitors the chance to experience the island as an immigrant might have, and is a good option for those with limited time. Special children's tours are also available.<br /><br /> Getting to Ellis Island involves a crowded ferry ride (be sure to bring a jacket) from Battery Park. The ferry also stops at Liberty Island (home of the Statue of Liberty), making it a convenient way to see two of New York City's most popular attractions in a single morning. It is best to buy combined tickets ahead of time, as ferry queues can take several hours.<br /><br />

Chinese New Year

Where: Starting at Mott and Hester Street,New York City

When: 16 February 2018

New York City's Chinatown is the largest in the United States and the site of the largest concentration of Chinese people in the western hemisphere; a visit here feels like being in the country itself. It is a must-see on the opening day of the Chinese New Year celebrations when performers dance in the street in colourful costumes followed by a parade of dragon floats. Traditionally, the New Year marks the beginning of the spring and the rebirth of the earth. It is a time for family togetherness, and begins with the 'sweeping of the grounds' - a spring clean to sweep out the old and evil, which is followed by festivities and feasts. Chinatown has over 200 restaurants representing cuisine from all the regions of China, and at New Year the suspicious should eat a whole fish as, to the Chinese, this represents togetherness and abundance; also don't chop up your noodles, as their length represents long life! Colour is also important at New Year. The luckiest colours are red, orange, yellow, gold and pink. Black and white are unlucky.<br /><br />

Central Park SummerStage

Where: Central Park,New York City

When: 16 May to 23 September 2018

Summer Stage is one of New York's greatest institutions, and every summer Central Park is filled with music, theatre, opera and dance. There is a different performance every Saturday and Sunday afternoon, and also usually on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings, and most are free. Some famous performers and musicians grace the stage in Central Park and the atmosphere at the concerts is one of the great joys of a New York City summer. Bring a picnic if you don't want to pay for overpriced beer and French fries, and arrive early to get a good spot. For a list of events visit the official Summer Stage website listed below.<br /><br />

TCS New York City Marathon

Where: Finish in Central Park,New York City

When: 5 November 2017

As the world's largest marathon, with more than 35,000 runners from around the world participating, only London ranks alongside New York in terms of running prestige. The race passes through all of New York City's five boroughs, before finishing in Central Park and is an entertaining spectacle with many runners in fancy dress; it is also a good opportunity to see some celebrities offer their athletic best. Participants are treated to a whirlwind tour of the famous city, and spectators line the route, making a festival of the event. As so many people are keen to run, the general participants are usually selected in a lucky draw - check the official website listed below for details.<br /><br />

Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade

Where: ,New York City

When: 23 November 2017

Thanksgiving (originally a harvest festival) is celebrated across the United States as families get together and feast on huge helpings of roast turkey. Macy's Thanksgiving Parade is one of the Big Apple's most dynamic and colourful events that takes the celebrations one stage further. Its origins date back to the 1920s when the city's European immigrants decided to celebrate the American Thanksgiving Day holiday with the sort of festivities they had known in their homelands. Hundreds of people marched from 145th Street to 34th Street in costume; accompanied by floats, live animals (on loan from the zoo) and musicians. The parade attracted over 250,000 spectators and quickly became an institution. Today the colourful parade features clowns and marching bands, but the biggest attraction are the Floats and Falloons (a Macy's hybrid of a cold air balloon and float) that tower over the crowds; they usually include Angelina Ballerina, The Statue of Liberty and of course, the man of the season, Santa Claus on his sleigh. The parade starts on 77th Street and proceeds down Central Park West to Columbus Circle, then down Broadway to Macy's at 34th St, finishing on Seventh Ave. Good places to watch it include Times Square and Columbus Circle, but get there early as by the afternoon the crowds are thick.<br /><br />

Macys Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular

Where: The spectacle will take place from barges positioned in New York Citys East River,New York City

When: 4 July annually

Independence Day is celebrated throughout the States, but nowhere more than in New York City. Although many locals leave to spend the holiday on Long Island or in Upstate New York, thousands of others stay behind to watch Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular. This is probably the biggest and best firework extravaganza in the country, culminating in a massive party. More than 10,000 fireworks explode from barges along the west side of Manhattan, synchronized and choreographed to music. It starts at sunset and the best place to watch is from the banks of the East River.<br /><br />

TD Five Boro Bike Tour

Where: Battery Park to Staten Island,New York City

When: 6 May 2018

The biggest cycling event in the USA, the Commerce Bank Five Boro Bike Tour sees 30,000 cyclists pedalling through the five boroughs of New York City on 42 miles (68km) of traffic-free avenues, highways and bridges, including the world's longest single-span suspension bridge, the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. The route travels through Manhattan, the Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island. The day ends with a festival at Fort Wadsworth featuring live music, food and exhibitions. Spectators make a festival out of the event and line the route to cheer the cyclists on. For more details, and information on how to enter, check out the official website listed below.<br /><br />

Gay Pride Week and March

Where: The march which follows a route along 5th Avenue, right onto 8th Street, on to Greenwich Avenue and along Christopher Street in Greenwich Village.,New York City

When: 15 - 24 June 2018

Rainbow flags flutter in Greenwich Village and crowds of people dress up in outrageous costumes during New York's Lesbian and Gay Pride Week, with numerous events arranged to commemorate the Stonewall Riot and to show support for the LGBT community of New York City. Highlights of the week's festivities include a massive rally, the dance on the pier and the culminating march. Some huge sponsors get involved in Pride Week and people travel from all over the world to participate. New York City has a vibrant gay community year-round and many locals come out in support of the community during the many events. For more information and a full programme of events check out the official website listed below.<br /><br />

Times Square New Years Eve Celebrations

Where: Times Square,New York City

When: 31 December 2017

Times Square boasts one of the largest New Year's Eve celebrations in the world and the biggest party in New York. The famous lowering of the New Year's Eve Ball signifies the 60-second countdown to midnight and the tradition has become a worldwide symbol of welcoming in the New Year, viewed by millions across the globe. The festivities include the raising and lighting of the Ball, music, an hourly big screen video countdown, the lowering of the ball and a spectacular burst of fireworks. Revellers are showered with colourful confetti and are given celebratory hats, pom-poms and balloons to welcome in the New Year.<br /><br />

US Open Tennis Tournament

Where: Arthur Ashe Stadium, Flushing Meadows,New York City

When: 27 August to 9 September 2018

The top names and seeds in international tennis vie for victory in the final Grand Slam event of the season in New York each year. Singles, doubles, men's and ladies, and mixed doubles, make up the five separate tournaments within the championship. Held annually at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, the event dates back to 1881 when it was played in the State of Rhode Island as a men's singles event only, and it was not until 1968 that The US Open took the shape and structure that it has today. Those wanting tickets for big games are advised to book as far in advance as possible. For more details check out the official website listed below.<br /><br />

New York Fashion Week

Where: The Museum of the City of New York,New York City

When: 8-16 February 2018

The fashion gurus, gorgeous models and Hollywood brass pop into the Big Apple to check out the latest on the catwalk for next year's Spring Collection annually at New York Fashion Week. All the top names in the industry will be displaying their stuff but it is almost impossible for the general public to gain access to the event. Even so, budding fashionistas flock to New York at this time to enjoy the many associated events and spend some time celebrity-spotting and strutting their designer threads. For more information of this prestigious fashion extravaganza check out the official website listed below.<br /><br />

Home

Address: 20 Cornelia Street, between Bleecker and West 4th Street New York City

Food Type: American

This aptly named restaurant, with gorgeous patio seating, produces wonderful home-style cooking and is a favourite with locals. The cuisine takes comfort food to an entirely new level, while steak, pork chops, quail and seafood preparations excel. Signature dishes include a rich, creamy blue cheese fondue and the wine list gathers a number of bottles from Long Island vineyards. Open for brunch on Saturday and Sunday, lunch Monday to Friday, and dinner nightly.<br /><br />

Tribeca Grill

Address: 375 Greenwich Street New York City

Food Type: American

Located in Tribeca's Washington Market area, Tribeca Grill radiates excitement and energy. Co-owned by Robert DeNiro, 'The Grill' is a classic New York social venue. It is a massive restaurant with high ceilings and exposed brick walls - not the place for a romantic dinner, but great for celebrity spotting. The menu includes enticing grilled and sautéed selections with cross-cultural creative influences of many different cuisines. Favourites on the menu include short ribs braised in red wine, the grilled duck and the pan-roasted cod. Open for dinner nightly, lunch during the week and brunch on Sundays.<br /><br />

Le Bernardin

Address: 155 West 51st Street (Midtown West) New York City

Food Type: Seafood

Le Bernardin, New York's internationally acclaimed seafood restaurant, opened in New York in 1986 and in no time became a four-star restaurant that is renowned for setting standards in the cooking of seafood in America. The sliced conch in a Peruvian marinade is delicious, and the crispy black bass with Masala spice is also very good. Open for lunch Monday to Friday and dinner Monday to Saturday, closed Sundays. Reservations are essential.<br /><br />

Delmonicos

Address: 56 Beaver Street, near Wall Street New York City

Food Type: American

This attractive Wall Street landmark first opened its doors in the 1830s as the first restaurant in America and has an impressive history, even providing the setting for Mark Twain's birthday party. Serving up delicious steaks in a leather and mahogany setting, it attracts a loyal crowd of businessmen, who feel at home sitting at the low-key bar. Signature dishes include the 'Delmonico Steak' and 'Lobster Newberg'. Reservations recommended, open Monday to Friday for lunch and dinner.<br /><br />

Balthazar

Address: 80 Spring St, SoHo New York City

Food Type: French

Since its 1997 opening, this SoHo bistro has retained its buzz and irresistible allure. It exudes the look and atmosphere of an aged Parisian brassiere with pastel colours, oversized mirrors and powdery homemade bread. Nightly specials are based on classic French dishes, such as duck confit with wild mushrooms. Open for breakfast and dinner all week, lunch Monday to Friday and brunch on weekends. Reservations recommended.<br /><br />

Gramercy Tavern

Address: 42 East 20th Street (between Broadway and Park Avenue) New York City

Food Type: American

This iconic Union Square eatery's spacious, rustic-looking interior includes a casual street-facing tavern, a lively bar and a series of formal dining areas. The dining room menu offers inventive American cuisine such as lobster salad, and venison with onion marmalade, while the tavern is good for seafood chowder or pork sandwiches. The tavern is open for lunch and dinner daily, and the dining room is open for lunch Monday to Friday and dinner all week. Reservations recommended.<br /><br />

Nobu New York

Address: 105 Hudson Street (Tribeca) New York City

Food Type: Japanese

Nobu opened in 1995 bringing innovative 'new style Japanese cooking' to New York City. The restaurant is a visual and culinary delight - tall birch tree columns rise into the ceiling, which is painted copper with patches of open brickwork showing through, giving the effect of a Zen mountain retreat. Nobu's new style Japanese cuisine weds South American sensibility with Japanese traditions. Try the mussels with the signature Nobu salsa, or the yellowtail with jalapeño. Open Monday to Friday for lunch and all week for dinner, reservations essential.<br /><br />

Daniel

Address: 60 East 65th Street (between Madison Avenue and Park Avenue) New York City

Food Type: French

One of the city's best venues for classical French fare, this restaurant has been restored to its original 1920s Renaissance splendour. Using the freshest ingredients, seasonal masterpieces include squab with swiss chard barbajuan, radish and artichoke barigoule. Leave room for the huckleberry sorbet... Jacket and tie are required for gentlemen. Open for dinner Monday to Saturday, closed on Sundays. Reservations recommended.<br /><br />

Keens Steakhouse

Address: 72 West 36th Street New York City

Food Type: American

For a thick cut of New York steak, one of the best places to go is Keen's Steakhouse. The buzzing dining room has an old-fashioned charm with classic elegance, and though it can be loud, there's always a great atmosphere. Don't expect a variety of vegetarian options on this menu, as it focuses on meat and seafood. Reservations are recommended.<br /><br />

Acme Bar &amp; Grill

Address: 9 Great Jones Street New York City

Food Type: Southern

With its exposed brick interior, the world's largest collection of hot sauce and catfish and hickory chips delivered fresh from Mississippi, Acme Bar &amp; Grill is as far south as you have to go to enjoy the cuisine of the Deep South. Creole delights, such as Louisiana seafood gumbo, Creole jambalaya and 'Catfish Po-Boys' (a traditional submarine sandwich originating from Louisiana) are in abundance - the mashed potato is famous! Open daily for lunch and dinner, and brunch on weekends.<br /><br />

Ess-a-Bagel

Address: 359 1st Avenue New York City

Food Type: Delicatessen

When you're eating on the run in New York City, there's nothing like a big chewy bagel to sink your teeth into. One of the most popular bagel shops in town is Ess-a-Bagel, which serves fresh-boiled bagels with nearly any filling you can think of... far beyond the usual 'lox and schmear' (salmon and cream cheese). They even have a selection of tofu bagels for vegetarians. You can grab one on the go, or sit inside and relax. Great for breakfast and lunch, or a cheap dinner in New York.<br /><br />

Pauls Da Burger Joint

Address: 131 2nd Ave New York City

Food Type: American

Sometimes in life, and frequently in New York, it is essential to eat a truly great burger. Satisfy this urge in the most complete and delicious way possible at Paul's Da Burger Joint, an East Village classic famous for its huge variety of perfectly prepared burgers. The decor is wonderfully kitsch, and the joint is staffed by eccentrics and wacky waiters. As one customer described sais, 'It's vintage New York!'. Open daily from 11am till late.<br /><br />

John’s Pizzeria in Bleeker Street

Address: 278 Bleecker Street, New York City

Food Type: Pizzeria

New York-style pizza is world-famous for being thin, crispy, and humongous! John's Pizzeria is consistently rated one of the best in New York City, and their coal-fired brick-oven pizzas are sure to fill your stomach. The restaurant is unassuming, but the food is divine. They don't take reservations, so you can expect to wait at peak times. A real slice of New York!<br /><br />

The nightlife in New York City is second to none. Encompassing jazz bars, nightclubs, lounges, comedy clubs and live shows, there's literally something happening around every corner. The Village, Broadway, Bowery and Madison Square Garden are just a few of the best destinations for evening entertainment in New York.<br /><br /> As a hub of the jazz world, New York is home to venues such as 55 Bar and Arthur's Tavern. Jazz tours from Greenwich Village to Harlem are a fun option for enthusiasts, with a stop at the legendary Apollo Theatre. As the launching pad of comedians such as Jerry Seinfeld, New York also has many comedy shows; catch some of the best at the New York Comedy Club or the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater (UCB).<br /><br /> There are, of course, always famous Broadway shows to be seen: try the Palace or Eugene O'Neill theatres for the latest new shows. Broadway shows are expensive, hence the popularity of the three TKTS discount ticket booths, the most popular of which is in Times Square. They open every day at 11am, but the queues form well before this. You can pick up last-minute tickets for half of the regular price, depending on what's available. For the super-flexible theatre goer, visit the booth around 5pm when there is seldom a queue and last minute prices have dropped even further.<br /><br /> Nightclubs come and go quickly in New York City, as the fickle population becomes enamoured with the newest venue, but you can always be assured that whatever you want, New York will have plenty of it. Live music venues covering hip hop, rock, indie and almost any other genre imaginable abound in NYC, and there are also well-established venues offering things like poetry readings. But if what you're after is simply a pumping dancefloor be assured that at any given time internationally-acclaimed DJs are steaming up the New York darkness.<br /><br /> World-class performing arts venues are a dime a dozen in a city that boasts Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, Lincoln Centre and Carnegie Hall, and you can take your pick of ballet, opera, symphony orchestras, or chamber music.<br /><br /> For up-to-date events information for New York City, pick up a copy of the Village Voice or Time Out New York, both of which can also be accessed online.<br /><br />

Visitors to the Big Apple will be blown away by the amount and calibre of stores in this city. Offering some of the best and most expensive shopping in the world, 5th Avenue is synonymous with classy high-end department stores such as Bergdorf's and Saks. Madison Avenue is known as 'the trendy road', boasting 15 blocks of celebrity designer shops such as Chanel, Jimmy Choo and Prada, to name a few. Soho is one of New York's poshest outdoor malls, with cobblestone streets and loft-like spaces creating a pretty and unique shopping experience.<br /><br /> As cosmopolitan as New York may be, visitors on a tighter budget can still find plenty of bargains at the city's flea markets, which offer some top quality goods with stores touting designer knockoffs, antiques, jewellery, curios, thrift wear, home furnishings and cosmetics. Farmer's Markets are a must for foodies with high-quality vegetables, meat, dairy, poultry and fish as well as baked goods, honey, maple syrup, jam and wine to sample.<br /><br /> Chinatown is a budget shopper's paradise with cheap knockoffs on offer, and haggling common practice. Century 21 is considered 'New York's best kept secret' for bargain hunters with more than 15 departments of quality and designer merchandise at 25 to 75 percent off retail prices. Whether shopping in upscale Madison Avenue or the bargain-friendly Lower East Side, New York has something to offer everyone.<br /><br /> Popular New York City souvenirs run to tacky tourist merchandise: you'll be inundated with miniature Statues of Liberty and the ubiquitous 'I (Heart) NY' gear. Other popular buys include New York Yankees merchandise and theatrical posters from Broadway.<br /><br />